Evaluation of the Sustainability of Forensic Waste Management at Bhayangkara Hospital Level II Medan
Abstract
Forensic waste management at Bhayangkara Hospital Level II Medan is a multidimensional issue. The waste generated comprising human tissue, autopsy organs, and hazardous chemicals poses significant infectious and toxicological risks. This study aims to evaluate the sustainability of the forensic waste management system by analyzing technical conditions and stakeholder awareness levels to support safe, effective, and sustainable waste management. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining descriptive quantitative and exploratory qualitative methods. Data collection involved observation, laboratory analysis, questionnaires, interviews, and document review. The results indicate that the current forensic waste management facilities are effective in controlling chemical parameters, as evidenced by the absence of detectable formalin in laboratory test results. However, microbiological control remains suboptimal, as Escherichia coli and Salmonella bacteria were still detected in the treated waste. From a social perspective, medical personnel possess a good understanding of the high-risk nature of forensic waste; however, this awareness is not yet fully reflected in the consistent application of management procedures. Overall, the sustainability of forensic waste management requires improvement particularly regarding microbiological control, adherence to operational procedures, and cost-efficiency optimization to meet the principles of safe, effective, and sustainable waste management.
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